Believest thou this? John 11:26 KJV
"Martha believed in the power at the disposal of Jesus Christ; she believed that if He had been present He could have healed her brother. She also believed that Jesus had a peculiar intimacy with God and that whatever He asked of God, God would do; but she needed a closer personal intimacy with Jesus. Martha’s programme of belief had its fulfilment in the future; Jesus led her on until her belief became a personal possession, and then slowly emerged into a particular inheritance—“Yea, Lord: I believe that Thou art the Christ. . . .” Is there something like that in the Lord’s dealings with you? Is Jesus educating you into a personal intimacy with Himself? Let Him press home His question to you—“Believest thou this?” What is your ordeal of doubt? Have you come, like Martha, to some overwhelming passage in your circumstances where your programme of belief is about to emerge into a personal belief? This can never be until a personal need arises out of a personal problem."
Chambers, Oswald (2011-05-01). My Utmost for His Highest, Classic Edition (p. 231). Discovery House Publishers. Kindle Edition.
Do Christians (me included) really, really want a closer walk with God? Is a more intimate relationship with Christ a foundational desire of believers? If you took a poll, most would answer "Yes." or "Most certainly." or "Of course.". But ask a follow-up question, and I wonder if the responses would change. "If this closer walk required trials and challenges, would you be as eager?"
Oswald Chambers points out that a person's "programme of belief" cannot transform into a "personal belief" without the introduction of a personal problem into a person's life. Martha is a perfect illustration of this relationship.
Prior to Lazurs' death, Martha had what Chambers terms a "programme of belief". She had knowledge of Old Testament teachings. She was aware of Jesus' ministry. She even "believe(ed) that Thou (Jesus) art the Christ. . ." But it was not until her brother died and was in the grave did her beliefs transform from head to heart. From theory to reality. From scroll knowledge to application.
It was through the death of her brother that she experienced a real, first-hand outpouring of God's power. It was through the death of a family member that Martha witnessed the reality of Jesus promises.
Faith cannot be strengthened until it is tested. Reliance on God will not be increased until God is all we have.
On the my once-a-year trip to Silver Dollar City, I inevitably stop by the blacksmith's shop. Usually he is at the forge working on an project. He heats the metal to red hot, then beats on it with a heavy hammer. More heat. More pounding. Over and over and over. It is through this process that the proper shape and necessary strength is achieved for whatever purpose he has for the project.
Do we REALLY want an increased faith if it means trials? Are we truly willing to sacrifice comfort for an intimate relationship with God? Before we pray for these things, we must count the cost. Luke 14:28 ESV
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